80 per cent of Australian kids carrying sunscreen chemical linked to hormone
German researchers found a sunscreen chemical in 80 per cent of Australian children tested.
German researchers tested close to 19,000 Australians and found homosalate, a chemical in common sunscreen, in 80 per cent of children. The compound is seen as a possible hormone disruptor.
The Therapeutic Goods Administration says finding it alone does not mean a health risk. Skin cancer risk from sun exposure far outweighs the risks of this chemical.
The TGA is investigating sunscreen safety. Doctors say they currently have no data on what levels of homosalate in children might be too much or harmful.
The findings have prompted calls for stricter rules on sunscreen ingredients. Some experts suggest parents concerned about the chemical could choose alternative sunscreen products that do not contain homosalate.
- Close to 19,000 Australians
- Sample size
- Homosalate
- Chemical detected
- 80 per cent
- Prevalence in children
- Therapeutic Goods Administration
- Regulatory body
Why it mattersThe widespread presence of a possible hormone disruptor in nearly all Australian children raises questions about sunscreen safety. This may prompt parents to think again about which products they use.
AustraliaEvery Australian family with children may need to reassess sunscreen choices if regulations change; the findings affect what products are available and how sunscreen safety is regulated in Australia.
✓ Claims checked against the source. checked 1 d ago
